Home Run Dugout promoted to major league status
This morning, SBJ unveiled the nominees for its Sports Business Awards, with winners scheduled to be revealed in New York City on May 21. Among the tech-related nominees are Genius Sports, recognized as the Best in Sports Betting in 2023, along with Cosm and TGL up for Sports Breakthrough of the Year. Excitement is brewing for the upcoming event as industry leaders compete for top honors in their respective categories.
Home Run Dugout, a unique startup offering a baseball-themed entertainment experience akin to Topgolf, made headlines by securing its first partnership with an MLB franchise, the Texas Rangers. Two hitting bays will be installed at Globe Life Field, providing fans with a novel way to enjoy the game in a relaxed setting. Home Run Dugout’s innovative concept involves using soft-toss baseballs and augmented reality simulations to engage visitors in fun games like home run derbies, with a boost feature available to level the playing field for all participants.
Established in 2015 by childhood friends, Home Run Dugout recently received a substantial $22.5 million Series A funding round. The company’s current focus centers on developing smaller-scale venues within stadiums and entertainment districts to cater to a broader audience. While maintaining a successful standalone location in Katy, Texas, with a high visitation rate, the company is exploring more cost-effective growth strategies, including licensing its concept to other venues. By opting for this approach, Home Run Dugout aims to streamline its operations and expand its reach across various locations.
Apple Sports app users are in for a treat with the recent enhancements rolled out just in time for the men’s and women’s NCAA basketball tournaments. With the ability to follow live game updates, share scorecards on social media, and access a myriad of sports leagues and events, Apple is enhancing the user experience for sports enthusiasts. The addition of NASCAR and Formula 1 race tracking further diversifies the app’s offerings, allowing fans to stay informed about a broader range of sports content.
Home Run Dugout’s immersive experience extends beyond the entertainment district into the heart of baseball fandom, as visitors eagerly anticipate the installation of hitting bays at Globe Life Field. The company’s innovative approach to making the sport more engaging and accessible has garnered widespread acclaim and paved the way for future collaborations with major sports venues. As Home Run Dugout continues to evolve and expand its presence within the sports entertainment industry, fans can look forward to experiencing the thrill of hitting dingers in a simulated baseball environment.
Participants at Home Run Dugout’s Round Rock location, including industry executives, had the chance to step up to the plate and test their batting skills in a unique gamified setting. With the backdrop of a digital Fenway Park and the rush of hitting consecutive home runs, visitors were immersed in an exhilarating experience reminiscent of a live baseball game. Home Run Dugout’s commitment to blending technology with traditional baseball gameplay underscores its mission to create a dynamic and memorable outing for fans of all ages and skill levels.